Fastener structure



FASTENER STRUCTURE Filed 061;. 14, 1964 I5 Sheets-Sheet l HIII, m" 5 W, I25 I36 55 HIIII BI FIG. 2

I22 FIG. 1 v/ I 5 WI I38 I 24 I IIIH" I36 um 22 I I25 I I30 '3' W '24 I32 [I20 INVENTOR Richard K. Sufz y 2, 1967 R. K. su'rz 3,316,603

FASTENER STRUCTURE Filed Oct. 14, 1964 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 May 2, 1967 R. K. SUTZ FASTENER STRUCTURE Filed Oct. 14, 1964 FIG FIG. 1o

FIG, 9

INVENTOR ATTORNEY United States Patent 3,316,603 FASTENER STRUCTURE Richard K. Sutz, Riverdale, N.Y., assignor, by mesne assignments, to The Warner Brothers Company, Bridgeport, Conn, a corporation of Connecticut Filed Get. 14, 1964, Ser. No. 403,842 22 Claims. (Cl. 24-245) The present invention relates, generally, to fastener structure. More particularly, this invention pertains to fastener structure for use in fixedly, and yet removably connecting a plurality of articles with respect to one another, such as, for example, fixedly connecting each one of a pair of hosiery with respect to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt and the like, or a product such as a sanitary napkin, relative to a garment such as a sanitary belt.

Fastener structure, such as hosiery supporters, or garters, have heretofore been suggested. Presently, there is a relative plethora of such devices available. This type of device generally comprises a front member or keeper fabricated of metal wire, and, more recently of plastic, and presenting a key hole configuration, and a rear member or stud. The stud usually comprises a rubber button. In use, a stocking is disposed between the stud member and keeper member, the stud member and stocking then being inserted through the wide portion of the key hole-configured keeper member. The stud member and stocking is thence drawn or translated into the narrower portion of the keeper, thus disposing the stud in an operative position with respect to the keeper in which position the stocking is gripped and held by means of the cooperating portions of these members. This type of device is presently commercially available, is functional, simple, operable with facility, economical of fabrication, and presents a habit pattern of operation, this is, a sequence of operating steps that is familiar to that segment of the population most likely to avail itself of this type of device, namely, the female population. As a result, presently available hosiery supporters are generally acceptable by the female population, and foundation garment manufacturers, as well, thus defining what can be denoted as an accepted standard.

Notwithstanding the above, it is well known that presently available hosiery supporters present an unsightly bulge that is clearly visible through an outer garment, particularly since present style trends are directed to- Wards sleeker and tighter-fitting wearing apparel. To at least attempt to eliminate this bulge, the female population may reverse its position, thus allowing the stud and particularly the rubber button to protrude into the leg. This is a wholly unsatisfactory solution, since the hosiery supporter is thus a source of annoyance and is rendered difficult to manipulate and operate.

Presently available hosiery supporters inherently present certain other significant disadvantages. For example, the very construction of the rubber button results in its becoming less resilient and softer with age, since, with age, it is subjected to repeated launderings, thus allowing the stocking to slip. In addition, presently available hosiery supporters introduce marks on the body tissue. With the exception of hosiery supporters fabricated of plastic, the finish of such devices when fabricated of a wire metal chips, enabling the supporter to rust when subjected to such repeated launderings, so that wearing apparel may be stained thereby.

It is considered readily apparent that hosiery supporters are disposed or worn both at the front and at the rear of the body of a wearer, and, in the latter position, will generally be located at that portion thereof known as the thighs and posterior.

When the wearer assumes a seating attitude, those portions of the body will be subjected to its full weight. In this position, in particular, presently available hosiery supporters are particularly painful to wear, since the bulge inherent in its construction is pressed into the flaccid tissue of the body at those locations. When the body assumes this position, as well as when it assumes other positions such as standing, striding, and the like, the stocking introduces a downward force that is at least partially responsible for securely maintaining it in place. However, it has been found that, when this force is decreased or eliminated, as when the foundation garment is removed for one reason or another, presently available hosiery supporters tend to accidently release, thus requiring the stocking to be replaced when the garment is again positioned upon the body. Additionally, presently available hosiery supporters may comprise a connector assembly, enabling it to be removably associated with the foundation garment. While this is desirable, it has been found that the construction of such assemblies as have heretofore been suggested result in an accidental release of the supporter from the garment, when the latter is not being used, as, for example, when it is being shipped to a distributor, or to the consuming public, when a consumer places it in a drawer or closet until its use is required, and the like. It has even been found that the construction of presently available connector assemblies allows a connector, which is connected to the foundation garment, to accidently become dislodged from the assembly due to ordinary bodily movements of the wearer.

Among all of the disadvantages inherent in presently available hosiery supporters, possibly the most significant and prevalent disadvantage is the presentation of the aforementioned bulge. This can be said to be true since the elimination of the unsightly appendage is a constant source of endeavor. Basically, two approaches have been attempted to accomplish this result: (1) The presentation of hosiery supporters that are operable in the conventional manner, familiar to the whole of the female population, and, thus, presenting an established habit pattern of operation; (2) hosiery supporters that require a new habit pattern of operation, that is, a new position of the fingers and hands, manner of inserting the stocking and the like.

In those instance in which an attempted solution invokes the use of an established habit pattern of operation, the rubber button or stud of the garter is enlarged in area, enabling it to prevent, in effect, a more uniform bulge. While it is true that the hosiery supporter, as a whole, is somewhat less conspicuous, there is nevertheless presented this ever-prevalent bulge. Accordingly, rather than eliminating this major problem in the art, the bulge is instead, larger, and, at the same time, presenting the additional problem of increased difficulty of operation, since the element that connects the stud member to the keeper member is fabricated of rubber, rather than the conventional cloth material, the former material being a more diificult one to manipulate. Another attempted solution is to increase the thickness of the keeper member to substantially that of the stud member, thus, in effect, spreading the bulge over a larger area. The result is generally the same as spreading the rubber button over an increased area, namely, still presenting an unsightly appendage to womens wearing apparel, even though the garter, as a whole, is rendered slightly less conspicuous than previously. The attempted solution, therefore, is not a solution at all.

In those instances in which the attempted solution involves the presentation of a new habit pattern of operation, it has been found that the supporters constructed in accordance therewith have been commercially unsuccessful. Firstly, such fastener structures are substantially unidentifiable as a hosiery supporter, at first blush, thus requiring substantially complete consumer reorientation as to positioning of the fingers and hands, insertion of the stocking and stud member into the keeper member, and the like. This problem becomes significant when it is realized that, while the hosiery supporter disposed at the front of the wearers legs can be visualized, the supporter disposed at the rear of the legs requires operation by feel and habit only. The proper operation of this type of hosiery supporter is thus rendered quite difficult and virtually impossible. Accordingly, the instances of hosiery slippage are increased.

It is considered readily apparent that the thickness of the welt of the stocking, which is that portion of the stocking located at the top thereof, varies from one manufacturer to another. Furthermore, it is considered readily apparent that the female population, in order to compensate for differences in the length of their legs, stocking lengths and lengths of the foundation garment, tend to fold and/or bunch the stocking at the welt thereof. In those instances in which hosiery supporters tend to solve the problem of the bulge, by introducing a new habit pattern of operation it has been found that such supporters are unable to accept more than one thickness of stocking welt, as when it is folded or bunched at that location. Still further, this so-called new habit pattern of operation type of hostery supporter has been found to be difficult to manufacture on a mass production basis, and, therefore, is a rather undesirable solution to the aforementioned problem of the bulge.

Accordingly, having in mind each and every one of the aforesaid disadvantages, and others that will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, a primary object of the present invention is to provide fastener structure for fixedly and detachably connecting together a plurality of articles, such as, for example, fixedly connecting each of a pair of hose with respect to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt and the like, or a product, such as a sanitary napkin, relative to a garment such as a sanitary belt, said fastener structure being so constructed and arranged as to present a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip and the like, that is generally uniformly fabricated of minimal thickness, and, therefore, is inconspicuous during the use, enabling a substantial, if not complete, elimination of any unsightly appendage in the nature of, for example, a bulge, visible through Wearing apparel.

Another primary object of this invention, in addition to the foregoing objects, is to provide fastener structure for fixedly and removably connecting a plurality of objects with respect to one another, such as, for example, fixedly and yet removably connecting each one of a pair of hose relative to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt, and the like, or a product such as a sanitary napkin relative to a garment such as a sanitary belt, said fastener structure being so constructed and arranged as to present a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip and the like, that is generally uniformly fabricated of minimal thickness, and, therefore, is inconspicuous during use, enabling a substantial, if not complete, elimination of any unsightly appendage in the nature of, for example, a bulge, visible through wearing apparel, further enabling said fastener structure to present a habit pattern of operation familiar to the consumer public, which fastener structure is yet capable of being worn in complete comfort on the body of the wearer, in the absence of being subjected to any annoyance, irritation or discomfort.

Yet another primary object of the present invention, in addition to each and every one of the aforementioned objects, is to provide fastener structure for fixedly and yet removably connecting a plurality of articles with respect to one another, such as, for example, fixedly and yet removably connecting each one of a pair of hose relative to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt, and the like, or a product such as a sanitary napkin, relative to a garment such as a sanitary belt, said fastener structure being so constructed and arranged as to present a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip, and the like, that is generally uniformly fabricated of minimal thickness, and, therefore, is inconspicuous during use, enabling a substantial, if not complete, elimination of any unsigthtly appendage in the nature of, for example, a bulge, visible through wearing apparel, further enabling said fastener structure to be efficiently and effectively operable under both load conditions and no-load conditions, to preclude slippage" with respect thereto, and accidentally dislodgement therefrom, while yet still further enabling said fastener structure to accept a plurality of thicknesses of stocking welt.

Furthermore, it is a primary object of this invention to provide fastener structure for fixedly and yet removably connecting a plurality of articles with respect to one another, such as, for example, fixedly and removably connecting each one of a pair of hose relative to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt, and the like, or a product such as a sanitary napkin, relative to a garment such as a sanitary belt, said fastener structure being so constructed and arranged as to present a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip, and the like, that is generally uniformly fabricated of minimal thickness, and, therefore, is inconspicuous during use, enabling a substantial, if not completely, elimination of any unsightly appendage in the nature of, for example, a bulge, visible through wearing apparel, further enabling said fastener structure to be fabricated with facility through the medium of manufacturing techniques, processing procedures, assembly sequences, and the like, compatible with existing fabricating and manufacturing techniques, while yet still further enabling said fastener structure to be capable of fabrication of materials and substances that will withstand such repeated procedures as launderings and the like, and will not rust and stain.

Still further, it is a primary object of the present invention to provide fastener structure for fixedly and yet removably connecting a plurality of articles with respect to one another, such as, for example, fixedly and yet removably connecting each one of a pair of hose relative to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt, and the like, or a product such as a sanitary napkin, relative to a garment such as a sanitary belt, said fastener structure being so constructed and arranged as to present a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip, and the like, that is generally uniformly fabricated of minimal thickness, and therefore, is inconspicuous during use, enabling a substantial, if not complete, elimination of any unsightly appendage in the nature of, for example, a bulge, visible through wearing apparel, said fastener structure comprising a connector assembly, particularly adapted to fixedly and/ or detachably connect such structure with one of said articles, namely, an article such as a foundation garment, said connector assembly being so constructed and arranged as to preclude the inadvertent and accidental dislodgment of said fastener structure from said article.

Additionally, it is a primary object of this invention to provide a stud assembly particularly adapted to cooperate with the frame assembly of the fastener structure, such as a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip and the like, which fastener structure in turn is particularly adapted to fixedly and detachably connect a plurality of articles with respect to one another such as, for example, fixedly and removably connecting each one of a pair of hose relative to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt, and the like, or a product such as a sanitary napkin, relative to a garment such as a sanitary belt, said stud assembly comprising at least one stud plate and an insert disposed in tandem or superimposed relationship with respect to one another, and being so constructed and arranged as to cooperate with said frame assembly to present a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip and the like, that is generally uniformly fabricated of minimal thickness, and, therefore, is inconspicuous during use, enabling a substantial if not complete elimination of any unsightly appendage, in the nature of, for example, a bulge, visible through wearing apparel.

A further primary object of this invention is to provide a connector assembly for fixedly and/or detachably con necting a fastener structure to one of a plurality of articles, such as a foundation garment comprising, for example, a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt, sanitary belt, and the like, said connector assembly being constructed and arranged as to preclude its accidental dislodgment from said article when it is desired that the article be fixedly and detachably removable with respect thereto, and, yet, being capable of a construction and arrangement that presents a permanent type of connector assembly, enabling the presentation of a connector assembly that is capable of functioning with, and being interchangable with respect to various and diverse types of fastener structures.

Other objects and important features of the present invention will be apparent from the study of the specification following taken with the drawing, which together show, illustrate, describe and disclose a preferred embodiment or modification of the invention and what is now considered to be the best mode of practicing the principles thereof. Other embodiments and/or modifications may be suggested to those having the benefit of the teachings herein, and such other embodiments or modifications are intended to be reserved especially as they fall within the scope and spirit of the subjoined claims.

In the drawings:

FIGURE 1 is an elevational view of fastener structure constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, with certain component parts thereof being shown in an operative position;

FIGURE 2 is a view similar to FIGURE 1, but illustrating the fastener structure from the rear thereof, and, in addition showing the manner in which a plurality of articles are fixedly and detachably connected with respect to one another;

FIGURE 3 is a cross-sectional line 3-3 of FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 4 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 4-4 of FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 5 is an isometric view of the fastener structure illustrated in the previous figures, but illustrating certain of the component parts thereof in an inoperative position with respect to one another;

FIGURE 6 is an exploded view of certain of the component parts of the fastener structure illustrated in the previous figures, as viewed from the front of each of the parts;

FIGURE 7 is a view similar to FIGURE 6, but showing the component parts as viewed from the rear thereof;

FIGURE 8 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line 8--8 of FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 9 is an elevational view taken along the line 9-9 of FIGURE 7; and

FIGURE 10 is an elevational View taken along the line 10-10 of FIGURE 7.

With reference now to the drawings, and particularly FIGURES 1 and 2, there is illustrated therein fastener structure, such as a hosiery supporter, garter, clasp, clip, and the like, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, and generally designated by the reference character 20.

The fastener structure 20 comprises a frame assembly 22 which, in turn, comprises an elongated rim 24 having an elongated aperture 26, therethrough, and a bight 28 of curvilinear configuration at one end thereof. A plurality of flanges 3t integral with the rim 24, extend therefrom into the aperture 26, each flange originating at a location generally medially of the length of the aperture, and exview taken along the tending to the bight 28. The flanges 30 each comprise a plurality of faces 32 and 34, one of which, namely the face 32, being disposed in a substantially flush relationship with respect to one face 36 of the rim 24. The other face 34 of each flange is disposed in an inwardly spaced relationship with respect to another face 38 of the rim. To facilitate an understanding of the present invention, the faces 32 and 34 of the flanges 30 can be denoted as rear or back and front faces, respectively, as can the faces 36 and 38 of the rim 24.

The flanges 30 each comprise, further, an inclined flange guiding shoulder 40 extending upwardly and outwardly towards the rim, and an inclined flange retaining shoulder 42 extending downwardly and inwardly towards the aperture 26. Each of the flange retaining shoulders have a generally vertical extending surface 44 extending from the shoulder to the bight 28 of the rim. Accordingly, it will be understood that the surfaces define between them an unobstructed bight portion 416 of the bight 28. Thus, the rim 24 is presented with a free and unobstructed portion, namely, the portion 46, along that segment of the rim that is otherwise obstructed by the flanges 30. Stated in other words, the retaining shoulders 42 are discontinued, as opposed to being extended completely across the aperture 26, to thus present a free and unobstructed bight portion 46 along the rim, the purpose of which will be described more fully hereinafter.

The frame assembly comprises, further, a recess 48 at an end of the rim 24- thereof opposite the bight 28. While only one is shown, a plurality of lugs 50 extend from a wall 52 of the recess, towards the face 38 of the rim. A mounting plate 54, integral with the rim, extends upwardly from the rear face 36 thereof, and is of curvilinear configuration, enabling it to extend towards the front face 38, and to within the recess 48. The mounting plate comprises an integral mounting tab 56, of greater thickness, which tab is particularly adapted to be disposed within the recess. The ta-b comprises a plurality of apertures or bores 58, within each of which a corresponding one of the lugs 50 is particularly adapted to be fixedly disposed. This may be accomplished in any suitable manner, as by cold-heading, staking, press-fitting, and the like, thus enabling the tab 56 to be fixedly positioned within the recess, and further enabling the plate 54 to be securely and fixedly disposed in the illustrated position. It will be understood that the combined thickness of the plate 54 and its tab 55 is substantially similar to the depth of the recess 48 of the frame assembly 22 at that end thereof, enabling the assembly to present a flush appearance at both the front and rear faces 38 and 36 thereof, respectively. While an enlarged space is shown between the wall 52 of the recess 48 and the tab 56, it will be understood that this exaggeration is merely for purposes of illustration. For all practical purposes, any amount of space may be provided, or no space at all may exist, as long as the relative dimensions, as indicated above, enable the presentation of the aforesaid flush appearance. A connecting plate tl, integral with the rim 24'- of the frame assembly extends upwardly therefrom, and is particularly adapted to be disposed in overlying or superimposed relationship with respect to the tab 56 of the plate 54.

The frame assembly 22 comprises, still further, a plurality of nodules 62 extending from the rear face 36 thereof. The purpose of the nodules will be described more fully hereinafter. At this point, it will be under stood that, while the frame assembly 22, as described above, preferably is of a unitary integral construction, it may be fabricated in any suitable manner, and, therefore, the various elements thereof may equally as well be separable and capable of operative association with one another in any suitable manner. In addition, the frame assembly may be fabricated of any suitable material, and, therefore, the various elements thereof may equally as well be separable and capable of operative association with one another in any suitable manner. In addition,

the frame assembly may be fabricated of any suitable material. In accordance with the principles of the present invention, however, it is preferred that the assembly be fabricated of a suitable plastic material possessing, among others, the requisite characters of strength, while yet presenting a sufficient degree of resilience. In addition, the plastic should be a non-toxic composition, and one that will sustain, Without chipping, and the like, repeated launderings, and other similar processes. It has been found that an acetal resin is suitable, though it will be understood that the present invention is not limited to the use of this specific composition.

The frame assembly comprises, further, a stud assembly, generally designated by the reference character 64. This assembly comprises a back stud plate 66 having a plurality of angularly configured ribs 68 extending from one face 70 thereof, which face can be denoted, for purposes of explanation, as the front face of this plate. At this point, it will be realized that the nodules 62 of the rim 24 are particularly adapted to be cooperable with or ride along the front face 70 of the plate 66, and the ribs 68 of this plate are particularly adapted to be cooperable with or ride along the rear face 36 of the rim. This will be more fully explained hereinbelow. A plurality of lugs 72, integral with the plate 66, extend from the face 70 thereof, for a purpose subsequently to be described. A connecting strip 74 is fixedly connected to the stud plate 66 at one end thereof in any suitable manner. The strip may be fabricated of any suitable material, such as cloth, and is particularly adapted to be fixedly disposed between the tab 56 of the mounting plate 54, and the connecting plate 60. In this manner, the frame assembly 20 and the stud assembly 64 are operatively associated with one another, and the assembly and disassembly of one with respect to the other, as will be described hereinbelow, can be accomplished without the possibility of one or the other of the assemblies being misplaced or even lost.

The stud assembly 64, comprises, further, an insert generally designated by the reference character 76, and, in this connection, reference is now had particularly to FIGURES 6, 7 and 9. The insert may be fabricated in any suitable manner, and of any suitable material, though preferably it is fabricated of a resilient material such as rubber, or other suitable elastomeric substance. This element is particularly adapted to be positioned upon the back stud plate 66 in tandem or superimposed relationship with respect thereto, and comprises a recess 78 at one end thereof, and a recess 80 at the other end thereof. The recess 78 is of greater depth than the recess 80. The insert comprises, further, a plurality of shoulders 82 of curvilinear configuration extending outwardly from the recess 78 at the aforesaid one end thereof to the sides of the insert.

To further facilitate an understanding of the present invention, and, in particular, the insert, it will now be described as comprising a plurality of superimposed portions 84 and 86 (FIGURE 9), though it will be understood that the insert is preferably fabricated as a unitary and integral element. One of the portions, namely, the portion 84, comprises a plurality of inclined stud limit or limiting shoulders 88 extending downwardly and inwardly from each one of the shoulders 82. The shoulders 88 each terminate at a corresponding one of a plurality of generally vertically extending Walls 90. The portion 84 comprises, further a plurality of stud retaining shoulders 92, each one extending downwardly from a corresponding one of the walls 90 to the recess 80 at the other end of the insert 76.

The other portion of the insert, namely, the portion 86, comprises a flange 94 extending generally vertically downwardly from each one of the curvilinear shoulders 82, and along the vertical walls 90 of the portion 84. Each flange 94 has a plurality of faces; one face 96 being disposed in the same plane as one face 98 of the insert portion 84; and another face 100 being disposed in spaced parallel relationship with another face 102 thereof. Stated in other words, the insert portion 84 is of greater thickness than the insert portion 86, so that the face 100 of the flanges 94 is disposed in a plane located generally at right angles with respect to the plane at which the vertical walls are disposed.

Additionally, the flanges 94 terminate at a location adjacent to the stud retaining shoulders 92, and are tapered from the face 96 thereof to the face to define a plurality of inclined stud guiding surfaces 104. Each of the surfaces 104, therefore, originate at the face 96 of a corresponding one of the flanges 94, at the aforesaid location adjacent the stud retaining shoulders 92, and terminate at or upon the other face 100 along the vertical walls 90 of the insert portion 84. This relationship of the surfaces 104 could, of course, be described in the reverse, namely, that they originate at the face 100 along the walls 90, and terminate at the face 96 adjacent the shoulders 92. The face 100 of each flange 94 is fabricated with a plurality of tits, projections, nodules, or enlargements 106, enabling the flanges, and particularly, that face thereof, to define gripping surfaces, the manner in which they function to be described more fully hereinafter.

It will now be understood that, in superimposing the insert 76 upon the back stud plate 66, it is the face 102 of the insert portion 84 that is positioned thereupon. And, since the flanges 94 are of less thickness than that insert portion, the flange faces 100 are disposed substantially in spaced parallel relationship with respect to the back stud plate. Accordingly, a plurality of stud grooves 108 are defined, within which a corresponding one of the flanges 30 of the frame assembly 22 are particularly adapted to be located, when the stud assembly 64 is disposed to be translated to an operative position with respect to the frame assembly. This operative position, and the sequence of steps leading to disposing the stud assembly in this position, will be described more fully hereinafter.

The stud assembly 64 comprises, still further, a front stud plate .110, having a front face 111, that is particularly adapted to be fixedly connected to the back stud plate 66, and disposed in a tandem or superimposed relationship with respect to the insert 76. To this end, the front stud plate comprises a plurality of bosses 1'12 extending from a rear face 113, each having an aperture or bore 114 extending therethrough. It is Within the bores 114 that a corresponding one of each of the back stud plate lugs 72 is particularly adapted to be fixedly positioned, in any suitable manner, as by cold-heading, staking, press fitting, and the like. The bosses 112, in turn, are particularly adapted to be disposed in a corresponding one of each of the recesses 78 and '80 of the insert 76. The bosses are of substantially the same dimenisonal extent as one another, and of substantially the same dimensional extent as the recess 78. The recess 80, however, is of less depth than the recess 78, so that a portion of the boss 112 to be disposed therewithin will extend outwardly thereof, and downwardly therefrom.

The front stud plate comprises, further, a plurality of inclined ramps 116 extending upwardly from the periphery of the plate, outwardly or away therefrom, and towards the face 70 of the back stud plate 66. The ramps 116 terminate substantially adjacent the aforesaid location at which said inclined stud guiding surfaces 104 originate, at which location the ramps define a plurality of ramp shoulders 118. The ramp shoulders thus extend from that location, outwardly of the front stud plate .110, and, of importance, is the fact that they terminate at a vertical plane which, if drawn, would intersect the guiding surfaces 104, generally medially of the longitudinal dimensional extent or length thereof.

While the rubber insert 76 preferably is fabricated of an elastomeric material, the back stud plate 66 and the front stud plate 110 may be fabricated of any suitable material. For example, these elements may be fabricated 9 of the same material as the frame assembly 22, namely, an inherently resilient plastic, such as acetal resin, that yet presents suitable rigidity. :In addition, While the back and front stud plates 66 and 110 have been described as separate elements fixedly connected to one another, it will be understood that they can together or conjointly be fabricated as a unitary or integral element, this being accomplished in any suitable manner, as by means of a molding process.

The fastener structure comprises, still further, a connector assembly, generally designated by the reference character 120, that is so constructed and arranged as to define, in elfect, a hook. The connector assembly or hook 120 is particularly adapted to perform the function of connecting the fastener structure 20 to another article, such as a foundation garment, which will be described more fully hereinafter. The connector assembly or hook comprises a portlon 122 having an elongated aperture 124 that may be of any suitable configuration. It will now be understood that the connecting plate 54 of the frame assembly, and the cloth connecting strip 74 of the back stud plate 66 are particularly adapted to extend through this aperture.

The hook 120 comprises, further, a wall 125 of irregular configuration, and an arm 126. The arm 126, in turn, comprises a convex surface 128', and a finger 130, extending towards the wall 125. The finger comprises an en largement 131 at its extremity, which enlargement extends towards the surface 128. It will be understood, therefore, that the wall 125, the surface 128, and the finger 130 having the enlargement 131, define a recess 132, and that the wall and the finger define between them an entrance 134 to the recess. The wall 124 has a wall portion 136, and the convex surface 128 has a surface portion 138, these two portions being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to one another. The spacing between these two portions, preferably is less than the spacing between the enlargement 131 of the finger 130 and the Wall 124, the purpose of which relationship will be described more fully hereinafter.

As pointed out above, the connector assembly or hook 120 is particularly adapted to operatively associate or connect the fastener structure 20 with an article such as a foundation garment, for example, a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt and the like. Such articles conventionally comprise a strap 140 of generally U-shaped configuration that is connected thereto and is particularly adapted to be disposed within the recess 132 of the hook. It will now be understood, therefore, that the connector 140 is intended to be illustrative of an article, such as a foundation garment, as a whole, rather than being illustrative of only this element. The reason is to avoid confusion in the drawings by illustrating conventional elements, and, therefore, to facilitate an understanding of the present invention.

The connector assembly or hook 120, in accordance with the aforesaid construction thereof, is particularly adapted to preclude accidential entry of the connector 140 into the entrance 134, as a result of ordinary bodily movements, such as result from walking, striding, sitting, and the like. In particular, the finger 130 is of substantial longitudinal dimensional extent in a direction towards the wall 125. Therefore, the finger extends along a substantial portion of the transverse dimensional extent or width of the connector 140. As a result, any forces applied to the connector 140 will not be sufficient to bend or fold it about a vertical axis extending generally centrally therethrough to such an extent as to enable that edge of the connector 140 closest to the enlargement 131 of the finger 130 to enter the entrance 134. Stated in other Words, the relationship between the transverse dimensional extent or width of the connector 140 and the longitudinal dimensional extent or length of the finger 130 is such as to preclude accidental entry of the connector into the entrance 134. The finger 130 is assisted in the performance of this function by the relationship between the spacing between the Wall portion 136 and the enlargement 131 and the wall portion 136. More particularly, the extent of the entrance 134 is greater than the spacing between the portions 136 and 138, so that the portion 136 presents, in effect, a bump that precludes any substantial bending or folding of the connector along the aforesaid axis.

Notwithstanding this preclusion of accidental entry of the connector into the entrance 134, a simple manual force applied thereto will detach the connector and, therefore, the foundation garment from the hook 120.

The connector assembly 121 may be fabricated of any suitable material, such as metal. When fabricated of that type of material it is fixedly connected to the frame assembly 22 by inserting the connector plate 54 thereof through the aperture 124 as pointed out above. The tab 56 of the plate is then fixedly mounted within the recess 48 by fixedly positioning the lugs 50 within the apertures or bores 58, in any suitable manner, as by cold-heading, staking, press-fitting and the like. Subsequently, the connecting strip 74 is positioned between the tab 56 and the connecting plate 69, and the latter then fixedly connected to the tab, to fixedly connect the strip to the frame assembly. Though the dimensional extent of the tab 56 can be chosen to be substantially the same as that of the recess 48 within which it is disposable, to provide a snug fit, and to insure the flush appearance of the surfaces of the frame assembly, as pointed out hereinbefore, the length of the mounting plate 54 along its curvilinear extent is sutficient to provide an area above the recess within which the portion 122 of the connector assembly or hook 126 may be disposed. The hook will therefor be free to move, and particularly to rotate relative to the frame assembly 22 to accommodate the various bodily movements of the wearer. While the hook has been described as fixedly or non removably connected to the frame assembly, it is within the scope of the present invention that the hook be removably connected as well. Furthermore, it is within the scope of this invention that the connector assembly be fabricated of the same material as the frame assembly in which case the frame assembly and the connector assembly can be fabricated as a unitary and integral assembly by any suitable molding process. In this instance, while the connector assembly or book will not be relatively movable with respect to the frame assembly, to

and the surface portion 138,

the same extent as it is when separately fabricated, as illustrated, there will be sufficient relative movability to accommodate such movements of the wearer due to the inherent resiliency of the material from which the integral assembly is fabricated such as, as hereinbefore pointed out, an acetal resin. In the exemplary form illustrated, in which instance the hook is a separately fabricated element, it will understood that there is therefore presented a connector assembly that is particularly adapted to be operatively associated with various types of fastener structure. The illustration wherein a connector assembly, connected in accordance with the present invention, is operatively associated with a frame assembly 22 and a stud assembly 64, constructed in accordance with the present invention, is therefore, not in any way intended to be limiting.

Fastener structure 20, once operatively associated with, for example, a foundation garment, as illustrated by the connector 140 thereof, is particularly adapted to perform the function of, for example, fixedly connecting each one of a pair of hose or hosiery with respect thereto. In use, the connector and the fastener structure will be positioned or lie against a wearers leg, and particularly against that portion thereof known as the thigh, as indicated at 142. The stocking 146 is first positioned between the stud assembly 64, and the rear surfaces 32, 36 of the frame assembly 22. The stud assembly is now inserted into the unobstructed portion of the aperture 26 towards the upper end thereof. It will now be understood that the contour of the aperture is of key hole-shaped configuration, having a wide portion at the upper or unobstructed end there of, and a narrow portion at the lower or obstructed end.

The stud asembly 64 is now particularly adapted to be moved downwardly towards the flanges 30.

As the stud assembly is lowered, the ramps 116 of the front stud plate 110 contact the inclined flange-guiding shoulders 40, forcing the stud assembly towards the front surfaces 34, 38 of the frame assembly 22. Since the ramp shoulders 118 terminate at a plane that would, if drawn, intersect the stud-guiding surfaces 104 generally medially of their length, the shoulders 40 will contact these surfaces along their length, rather than at the aforesaid location at which they originate. This insures that the flanges will be precluded from accidental lodging between the rubber insert 76 and the front stud plate 110, particularly at the surfaces 104. In addition, it is assured that the flanges 30 will ride along the guiding surfaces 104 and be directed onto the gripping surfaces defined by the flanges 94 at the front face 100 thereof.

Continued lowering of the stud assembly 64 positions the stocking 142 substantially as illustrated in FIGURES 3 and 4. The nodules 62 extending from the rear face 36 of the frame assembly 22 now contact the front face 70 of the back stud plate 66 of the stud assembly 64, and the ribs 68 of that stud plate contact the aforesaid rear face of the frame assembly. The back stud plate is therefore forced outwardly and away from the rear face 36, and causes a similar movement of the front stud plate 11. This movement of the front stud plate is, in effect, towards the front face 38 of the frame assembly 22, and, in addition, causes a compression of the flanges 94 of the insert 64.

It will now be understood that the face 100 of the flanges 94 and the face 34 of the flanges 30 cooperate with one another to introduce a very tight gripping force against the stocking 146 which extends between the flanges and within the grooves 108 defined between the flanges 34 and the front face 70 of the back stud plate 66. The flanges 30 as hereinbefore pointed out, are particularly adapted to be disposed within the grooves 108, enabling the stud assembly 64 to ride along the flanges to the operative position with respect to the frame assembly 22, illustrated in FIGURES 2, 3 and 4. In addition, the flanges 30 are particularly adapted to cooperate with the vertically extending walls 90 of the insert 76. Since the stocking 142 extends between these cooperating surfaces as well, it can be seen that the effectiveness of the gripping force is even further enhanced. Still further, this force is particularly effective to perform its function, due to the provision of the projections 106 extending from the face 100 of the flanges 94, these projections being especially eflicient since the insert preferably is fabricated of an elastomeric material, such as rubber.

As particularly illustrated in FIGURE 3, the stocking 146 also extends between the ribs 68, extending from the front face 70 of the stud plate 66, and cooperating with the rear face 36 of the frame assembly, and between the nodules 62 that cooperate with that front face. Therefore, in addition to the gripping force introduced as described above, there is introduced a holding force insuring that accidental release of the stocking 146 from the fastener structure 20 will be precluded. Again, it is emphasized that, due to this relationship between the cooperating surfaces 68 and 36, and between the surfaces 62 and 70, the front stud plate 110 is drawn towards the front faces 34 and 38 of the frame assembly, thus insuring a flush appearance at that location, and precluding the introduction of a bulge. Therefore, during use, the fastener structure 20 will present only a very smooth, flush and neat appearance, hardly visible, if at all, through outer garments such as closely fitting skirts, dresses, slacks and the like. At this point, it is noted that the configuration of the ribs 68 insures that an even pressure will be introduced against the rear face of the flanges 30 as well as against the rear face 36 of the rim 24.

When the stud assembly 64 reaches its operative position, the stud-retaining shoulders 92 are particularly adapted to cooperate with the flange-retaining shoulders 42. Since the stocking 146 is first positioned between the stud assembly and the rear faces 32 and 26 of the frame assembly 22, it will extend over the front stud plate 110, through the aperture 26 of the frame assembly, over the rim 24 at the bight 28 thereof, and thence outwardly and downwardly of the fastener structure, as particularly illustrated in FIGURE 4. In this position, then, the stocking will extend between the shoulders 42 and 92, enabling these cooperating surfaces to introduce a retaining force, in addition to the aforesaid gripping and holding forces. And, since the stocking extends about the flanges 30, as illustrated in FIGURE 3, the stocking must also extend or be disposed between guiding shoulders 40 of the flanges, and the stud limit shoulders 88, which, in the operative position are particularly adapted to cooperate with one another. The cooperation between these surfaces, then, further enhances the aforesaid retaining force. Of course, the shoulders 88 perform the additional function of limiting the downward movement of the stud assembly 64, relative to the frame assembly 22, to thus define the aforesaid operative position. And, since the guiding surfaces 40 first contact the stud guiding surfaces 104 as hereinbefore pointed out, they perform the additional function of guiding the stud assembly 64 to a position enabling the flanges 30 to be properly disposed within the grooves 108. Accordingly, then, exact disposition of the stud assembly in its operative position is insured, enabling the aforesaid cooperating surfaces to properly cooperate with one another.

A foundation garment, as illustrated by the connector 140, exerts an upward force during use as indicated at F (FIGURE 4). As a result, the stocking 146 will introduce reaction forces F F and F (FIGURES 2 and 4). With particular reference now to those figures, it will be seen that the reaction forces tend to pull the stocking 146 from its fixed connected position, relative to the fastener 20, but are unable to do so because of the aforesaid static gripping, holding and retaining forces. Accordingly, the reaction forces tend to introduce a normal force F by the stocking 146, which normal force tends to move the stud assembly 64 through the frame assembly 22. This movement cannot, of course, take place, due to the hereinbefore described construction of the stud assembly and frame assembly, and, for example, because of the cooperation between the flanges 30 and 94. The net result of this normal force P therefore, is to increase the pressure exerted between the cooperating faces 34 and 100, thus further increasing the aforesaid gripping force. This result is insured and facilitated since, as hereinbefore pointed out, the ramp shoulders 1*18 terminate at a plane which, if drawn, would intersect the stud guiding surfaces 104, generally medially of their length. Accordingly, and with reference to FIGURE 8, it will be understood that this construction presents a space S between the ramp shoulders and face 34 of the flanges 30. The provision of this space S enables the stud assembly 64 to be laterally movable towards the aperture 26 under the influence of the normal force F In effect, then, it can be said that under the influence of this force, the stud assembly tends to move through the aperture in the frame assembly 22, though, of course, it is precluded from doing so, even when the normal force is substantial magnitude, by the cooperation between the flanges 30 and 94. The flanges, therefore, perform the additional function of a mechanical stop, the flanges 30 being particularly effective in the performance of this function since they are provided with an increased area at the shoulders 42. However, it is this very tendency to latterally move through the aperture 26 in a direction towards the back stud plate 66 that assures the proper degree of cooperation between the surfaces 34 and of the flanges 30 and 94 respectively, to present the more than suflicient gripping force hereinbefore described.

As pointed out above, the rim 24 of the frame assembly 22, comprises a bight 28 having a free or unobstructed bight portion 46 resulting from a discontinuance of the flanges 30 at that location through the medium of the flange retaining shoulders 42. Inasmuch as the aperture is unobstructed at this location, the aforesaid tendency of the stud assembly to laterally move through the aperture is facilitated. Moreover, the stocking 146, which extends through the aperture 26, will exert a downward force, if it exerts any force at all at this location, rather than exerting an upward force. Accordingly, any tendency to lift the stud assembly 64 upwardly and out of its operative position relative to the frame assembly 22, by the force F will be substantially, if not completely, eliminated.

Additionally, it will be understood that the reaction forces F and F exerted by the stocking 146 are exerted by the stocking 146 in a direction that is generally tangential to the shoulders 82 of the insert 76. This force system is sigfinificant when it is realized that, in positioning the fastener structure 20 relative to the stocking 146, the latter is left with a stocking portion 148 that is located above the stud assembly 64 after it is disposed in its operative position. This stocking portion is positioned between the cloth connecting strip 74 and the rear surface 36 of the frame assembly, and, under the influence of the tangential forces F and F tends to bunch and hang over the shoulders 82 of the stud assembly, between the front surface 70 of the back stud plate 66, and the aforesaid rear face of the frame assembly. The tangential forces, therefore, tend to pull the stud assembly further downwardly towards its operative position. Further pressure is thus exerted between the flange guiding shoulders 40 and the stud limit shoulders 42, and the stud retaining shoulders 92. It will be understood then that the tangential force system F F insures that a more than sufficient retaining force will be introduced to preclude accidental removal of the stocking 146 once operatively disposed relative to the fastener structure 20. It will further be understood that this force system is particularly effective since the rubber insert 76 is so configured, dimensioned and arranged as to enable the shoulders 82 to be disposed or located somewhat above the front stud plate 110, enabling the presentation of suflicient surfaces at a proper location against which the stocking portion 148 can act.

It will be remembered, at this point, that the nodules 62 and the ribs 68 are effective to move the back stud plate 66 outwardly of and away from the rear face 36 of the frame assembly 22. This result further facilitates the proper disposition and location of the stocking portion 148 so that it may act against the shoulders 82. That portion of the stocking 146 acted upon by the fastener structure 20 is usually denoted as the welt of the stocking, being located at the upper end thereof, and usually being of greater thickness than its remaining portions. The welt varies in thickness from one manufacturer to another. Since only the upper end of a stocking is illustrated, the stocking 146 can also be denoted as a stocking welt, and, therefore, it will be understood that the stocking portion 148 will also be of such increased thickness. Accordingly, it will be further understood that the nodules 62 and the ribs 68 perform the additional function of accommodating Welts or stocking portions 148 of varying thicknesses. Moreover, women tend to accommodate for the difference in length between the stocking and the leg 142 by folding it at the stocking welt 146. The nodules and the ribs will, in accordance with the above, easily accommodate even this increased thickness.

In accordance with the above construction, the present invention thus contemplates the provision of fastener structure 20 particularly adapted to removably aflix a plurality of articles with respect to one another. As an example, there is described and illustrated fastener structure comprising a hose supporter that is particularly adapted to removably affix a pair of hose, one of the stockings 146 being illustrated, to a foundation garment, such as a girdle, panty girdle, garter belt, and the like, illustrated by the showing of the connector 140. Of course, as hereinbefore pointed out, fastener structure constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention is equally as well adapted to removably aflix such articles as a sanitary napkin to a santitary belt. The fastener structure 20 is particularly adapted to be operable in other environments as well, and, therefore, the broadest possible construction is intended with respect to such language as removably affixing a plurality of articles with respect to one another."

A most significant result achieved by the present invention is the substantial, if not complete, elimination of the heretofore ever prevalent garter bulge. In order to achieve this result, a substantial portion of the thickness of the fastener 20 is reduced, and, more particularly, that portion of the fastener that would be disposed or positioned between a stocking 146 and an outer garment (not shown) is reduced in thickness to substantially that of the frame assembly 22. This is accomplished, firstly, by presenting a frame assembly comprising a plurality of flanges 30 that are of less thickness than that of the rim 24. As a result, the frame assembly is recessed, along the length of the flanges, within which recesses and along which flanges the stud assembly 64 is particularly adapted to be disposed and moved to an operative position. This construction enables the external or front face of the stud assembly 64, as defined by the front face 111 of the stud plate 110, to be brought closer to the corresponding front faces of the frame assembly.

Secondly, in order to achieve this result of substantially, if not completely, eliminating garter bulge, it is necessary to reduce the thickness of what is generally known as head (that portion above the neck) of a conventional garter, enabling the front or external face to be disposed in a flush relationship with the front surface of the frame assembly. This is accomplished by the presentation of a stud assembly, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, such as the stud assembly 64, comprising a thin back stud plate 66, an insert 76, fabricated of an elastomeric material such as rubber, and a thin front stud plate 110. There is thus presented a sandwich-type stud assembly, enabling the thickness of each of the elements thereof, that is, their height, to be reduced. More particularly, the insert 76 is so constructed and arranged as to in effect correspond with the neck and only a portion of the head of existing stud assemblies. Generally, the reduction in thickness of the insert, as compared to the aforesaid portions of existing stud assemblies, is sufiicient to bring that surface of the insert adapted to be positioned against the front stud plate below the level of the front face 38 of the rim 24. Specifically, this reduction in thickness corresponds generally to the thickness of the front stud plate, which plate reinforces the insert, and compensates for the aforesaid reduction in its thickness. It will be understood, therefore, that when the stud assembly 64 is disposed in an operative position with respect to the frame assembly 22, the front face 111 of the front stud plate 110 will lie in a plane corresponding to that in which the front face 38 of the frame assembly is disposed. Accordingly, the bulbous nature of existing stud assemblies is eliminated, as is the tendency of such structures to introduce garterbulge. Moreover, not only is garter bulge substantially, if not completely, eliminated, but, since the thickness of the stud assembly 64 from the stocking 146 to an outer garment (not shown) is reduced to substantially that of the frame assembly 22, and since this thickness is minimal, being of the order of .060 inch, the fastener 20 will be virtually inconspicuous during use.

In accordance with the above construction, the present invention contemplates the presentation comprising a plurality of elements disposed in a tandem or superimposed relationship with respect to one another. This relationship results in a sandwich-type assembly, 64, that, when compared to existing stud assemblies, is substantially reduced in thickness. A reduced-in-thickness sandwich-type stud assembly constructed in accordance with the present invention, such as the stud assembly 64, is therefore capable of substantially, if not completely eliminating garter bulge in and of itself. Thus, while the stud assembly 64 is herein described, disclosed, shown and illustrated as being cooperable with a frame assembly 22, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, it will be understood that the stud assembly is particularly adapted to cooperate with other frame assemblies as well. This is easily and simply accomplished by operatively associating the back stud plate 66 with, or connecting it to, any suitable frame assembly through the medium of the connecting means presented therewith. Such a connecting means may, for example, comprise the connecting strip 74, that functions to operatively associate these elements with one another in the present invention. At this point, it will be understood that, while emphasis has previously been placed upon the reduction in thickness of the stud assembly 64, particularly with respect to that portion thereof disposable between the stocking 146 and an outer garment (not shown), the back stud plate 66, is of minimal thickness as well, The whole of the fastener is thus of minimal thickness, rendering it virtually inconspicuous during use as hereinbefore pointed out, and precluding any discomfort to the leg 142 of a wearer.

The stud assembly 64 hereinbefore described, disclosed, shown and illustrated, comprises a preferred embodiment of a stud assembly, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention. It will be understood, however, that any variation thereof or embodiment or modification, that falls within the ambit or scope of the claims here appended, is to be considered as falling within the ambit or scope of the present invention. For example, while a particular construction and arrangement of the insert 76 has hereinbefore been described, disclosed and illustrated, this element could be of an elliptical or oval configuration, when viewed in elevation, and of a rectangular or curvilinear configuration in cross-section. In this instance, the vertically extending sides or edges of the insert are particularly adapted to cooperate with the flanges 30 of the frame assembly 22. The present invention also contemplates the provision of a front stud plate that is of substantially the same dimensional extent as the insert in any direction, in which instance this plate would function as a cap or cover for the insert to provide the necessary support. A still further example of this invention contemplates fabricating the flange 30 of an elastomeric material, and the insert 76 of any suitable material, enabling the introduction of the aforesaid gripping force.

This trend of analysis also applies to the connector assembly or hook 120. Thus, while that element has hereinbefore been described, disclosed, shown and illustrated, as operatively associating the fastener 20 with a foundation garment, as illustrated by the connector 140, it will be understood that the hook is equally as operable in other environments as well. For example, the connector assembly or hook is particularly adapted to perform its function in operative association with the various elements of brassieres, bathing suits, and the like. Of course, the use of the connector assembly or hook constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention is not limited to garments, but is applicable to any environment in which its salient characteristics are desired.

The fastener 20, constructed in accordance with the principles of the present invention, in addition to substantially, if not completely, eliminating garter bulge, eliminates inadvertent and accidental removal of the stocking 146 therefrom, for the reasons hereinbefore pointed out. This is true irrespective of whether the fastener is subjected to a load, as when in use, or is in a no-load position, as when the foundation garment, illustrated by the connector 140, to which the fastener is connected, has been removed from the wearers body, enabling the wearer to perform certain normal functions. Thus, the frame assembly 22 and the stud assembly 64, are so constructed and arranged as to present cooperating surfaces that result in the gripping force hereinbefore described. This force is, in and of itself, more than sufficient to preclude such accidental removal. At this point, it is well to recall the cooperation between the front face 34 of the flanges 30, and the face of the flanges 94. It is also well to remember, at this point, that the normal force F introduced by the stocking or stocking welt 146 tends to move the stud assembly 64 towards and through the aperture 26 of the frame assembly 22. Of course, movement through the aperture is precluded because of the cooperation between the aforesaid surfaces, which, in effect, function as a mechanical stop, for the reasons hereinbefore pointed out. Moreover, the gripping force is enhanced as a result of this movement, which, it is emphasized, is possible because of the presentation of the space S, and the fact that at least the insert 76, for example, is fabricated of an elastomeric material.

It is also well to remember that the construction and arrangement of the frame assembly 22 and the stud assembly 64 enables the stocking welt 146 to, in effect, hang over the shoulders 82 and between the connecting strip 74 and the rear faces 32 and 36 of the frame assembly. Actually, then, the stocking tends to pull the stud assembly downwardly into its operative position when the fastener structure 20 is subjected to a load (the reactionary forces F F and F even though the stud assembly has not been completely moved to that position by the wearer. In the operative position, the reactionary forces cause the shoulders 40 and 88, and the shoulders 42 and 92 to cooperate with one another, thus introducing the aforesaid retaining force that assists and complements the gripping force to hold the stocking in position relative to the structure 20, thus precluding accidental removal herefrom.

Even in the no-load position of the structure 20, the stocking 146 is precluded from inadvertent removal by the aforesaid gripping force, which, as hereinbefore pointed out, is of sufficient magnitude to perform this function. Moreover, the provision of the nodules 62 and the ribs 68 that cooperate, respectively, with the front face 70 of the back stud plate 66, and the rear face 36 of the rim 24, functioning, in effect, as a mechanical lock, introduce the hereinbefore described holding force. This force assists the gripping force in precluding inadvertent removal of the stocking 146 particularly under no-load conditions. In addition, it will be remembered that this particular cooperation is responsible for moving the stud assembly 64 rearwardly of the fastener 20, thus bringing the front face 111 of the stud assembly substantially in alignment or flush with the frame assembly. Still further, the introduction of this holding force by the mechanical lock of the nodule 62 and ribs 68, will preclude movement of the stud assembly to an inoperative position, when this movement is not desired.

It will be understood that certain details of construction are well within the scope and ambit of the present invention. Thus, though the connector assembly or hook is described, disclosed, shown and illustrated as comprising a removable type of hook, the same can be constructed as a permanent type as well. When constructed as a removable type of hook, it is nevertheless precluded from accidental dislodgment, for the reasons pointed out hereinbefore. While it is operatively associated with or connected to the frame assembly 22 of the present invention in a particular manner, it is capable of being easily and simply connected to other and various types of frame assemblies in any suitable manner.

It has been necessary to invoke the use of certain language to facilitate an understanding of the present invention- In certain instances, the language used pertains to details of construction. It will be understood that such language is intended in the broadest possible sense, to thus make available to the present invention the protection properly attributable thereto. For example, the rubber insert 76 has been described as comprising a plurality of recesses 78 and 80. It is equally within the scope and ambit of this invention to fabricate this element with a plurality of bores extending therethrough, in lieu of the recesses. Similarly, the back and front stud plates 66 and 110, respectively, have been described as separate elements, though they may be fabricated as a unitary and integral element, as hereinbefore pointed out. Moreover, the construction of the elements of the present invention necessitates the use of certain relative terminology, such as front, back, downwardly, upper, and the like. Again, the use of such language is to facilitate an understanding of this invention, and, therefore, is not in any way intended to be limiting. Accordingly, the broadest possible interpretation, construction and definition is to be attributed thereto.

While the invention has been shown, illustrated, described and disclosed in terms of an embodiment or modification which it has assumed in practice, the scope of the invention should not be deemed to be limited by the precise embodiment or modification herein shown, illustrated, described or disclosed, such other embodiments or modifications intended to be reserved especially as they fall within the scope of the claims here appended.

What is claimed is:

1. Fastener structure particularly adapted to fixedly and removably operatively associate a plurality of articles with respect to one another comprising, in combination:

an elongated frame assembly of substantially rectangular configuration;

said frame assembly comprising:

a rim having:

an aperture; and

a bight of curvilinear configuration at one end thereof;

a plurality of flanges each extending from the rim into said aperture, and from a location generally medially of its length towards said bight;

said flanges each comprising: p

a plurality of faces, one of which is disposed in substantially flush relationship with respect to one of the faces of said rim, and another of which is disposed in an inwardly spaced relationship with respect to another face of said rim;

an inclined flange guiding shoulder extending upwardly and outwardly towards said rim;

an inclined flange retaining shoulder extending downwardly and inwardly towards said aperture;

said flange shoulders each having a vertically extending surface terminating at said bight, said surfaces between them defining:

an unobstructed bight portion;

said frame assembly further comprising:

a recess at an end of said rim opposite the bight therea plurality of lugs extending from the recess towards the other face of said frame;

a mounting plate connected to the rim at said one face thereof, and being extendable towards the other face thereof;

said plate having:

a mounting tab of increased thickness positionable within said recess; and

a plurality of apertures within which said lugs are positionable;

the combined thickness of said plate and tab being substantially the same as said rim at the other end thereof; and

a connecting plate extending from the other face of said rim, and being disposable in overlying relationship with respect to the tab of said mounting plate subsequent to positioning the latter Within the recess of said frame; and

a plurality of nodules extending from said one face of the rim, at least one such nodule being disposed on either side of said aperture;

a stud assembly comprising:

a back stud plate having:

a plurality of angularly configured ribs extending from one face thereof;

the nodules of said frame assembly being cooperable with said one face of the back stud plate, and the ribs being cooperable with said one face of the rim;

.a plurality of back stud plate lugs extending from said one face; and

a cloth connecting strip extending from said back stud plate;

a rubber insert positionable upon said one face, and

comprismg:

a recess at each end thereof;

a plurality of curvilinear external shoulders each extending from the recess at one end of said insert; and

a plurality of superimposed portions;

one of said portions comprising:

' a plurality of inclined stud limit shoulders, each extending downwardly and inwardly from a correspond ing one of said external shoulders;

a plurality of vertically extending walls; and

a plurality of inclined stud retaining shoulders, each extending downwardly from a corresponding one of said walls to the recess at another end of said insert;

another of said superimposed insert portions comprising:

a flange extending from each of said external shoulders and along the vertical walls of said one portion;

each flange having:

a plurality of faces;

one of said plurality of faces being disposed in' the same plane as one face of said one insert portion, and another face being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to another face of said one insert portion;

said other face of each flange lying in a plane disposed generally at right angles relative to the plane at which the vertical walls of said one insert portion is disposed; v 7

said flanges each of them terminating at a location adjacent said stud retaining shoulders, and being tapered from said one face of each flange at said location, and terminating upon said other face and along said vertical walls;

said other face of each flange having:

a substantial plurality of tits to define:

l a plurality of gripping surfaces; and

a front stud plate fixedly connected to said back stud plate in superimposed relationship with respect to said insert; and comprising:

a plurality of bosses each having:

an aperture extending therethrough;

said back stud plate lugs being disposable within a corresponding one of said apertures;

said bosses being positionable within the recesses at each end of said insert; and

a plurality of inclined ramps extending upwardly and towards said one surface of the back stud plate, and defining:

a plurality of ramp shoulders located substantially adjacent the location at which said inclined stud guiding surfaces originate, and extending from said location to a plate intersecting said guiding surfaces generally medially of the longitudinal dimensional extend thereof;

the curvilinear shoulders of said insert extending outwardly of said front stud plate; and

a connector assembly comprising:

' a portion having:

an elongated aperture;

the mounting plate of said frame assembly being extendable through said aperture, and the connecting strip extending from said back stud plate being fixedly connectable between the connecting plate and the tab of said mounting plate subsequent to fixedly positioning the latter within the recess of said frame assembly; and

a wall of irregular configuration; and

an arm, said arm comprising:

a convex surface; and

a finger of substantial length extending towards said wall;

said wall, surface and finger defining a recess, and said finger being spaced from said wall to define an entrance thereto;

said wall having:

a wall portion; and

said surface having:

a surface portion;

said wall and surface portions being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to one another;

the spacing between said finger and said Wall being greater than the spacing between said wall and surface portions.

2. Fastener structure particularly adapted to fixedly and removably operatively associate a plurality of articles with respect to one another comprising, in combination:

a frame assembly comprising:

a rim, said rim comprising:

a plurality of flanges each having;

a plurality of faces, one of which is disposed in substantially flush relationship with respect to one of the faces of said rim, and another of which is disposed in an inwardly spaced relationship with respect to another face of said rim:

a stud assembly comprising:

a plurality of stud plates;

one of said stud plates defining a back stud plate, and another of said stud plates defining a front stud plate;

said front stud plate defining the front face of said stud assembly;

an insert disposed between said stud plates comprising:

a plurality of portions;

one of said portions having:

a plurality of flanges each having, in turn:

a plurality of faces;

one of said plurality of faces being disposed in the same plane as one face of another insert portion, and another face being disposed in space relationship with respect to another face of said other insert portion;

said other face of each flange being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to a face of said back stud plate to define a plurality of grooves;

said flanges being disposable within said grooves, and said stud assembly being translatable along said flanges to an operative position with respect to said frame assembly;

the flanges of said frame assembly, and the grooves of said stud assembly, enabling the front face of the latter to be disposed in substantially the same plane as the front face of the rim;

enabling said fastener structure to present a substantially flush neat and aesthetic appearance of minimal thickness when said stud assembly is disposed in said operative position, and to substantially, if not completely, eliminate a bulge forwardly of said structure, further enabling said fastener structure to be substantially flat and inconspicuous during use, and worn in complete comfort upon the body 0 a wearer, in the absence of any annoyance, irritation, or discomfort thereto attendant to the existence of a bulge;

the other face of each of said stud assembly flanges,

and the other face of each of said frame assembly flanges cooperate with one another to introduce at least one force to preclude the accidental release of an article from the fastener structure when a load is applied thereto, and even when said structure is in a no-load position, and wherein:

the rim of said frame assembly comprises:

a plurality of nodules particularly adapted to cooperate with the face of said back stud plate; and

said back stud plate comprises:

a plurality of ribs particularly adapted to cooperate with said one face of the rim;

the cooperation between the nodules and the face of said back stud plate, and between the ribs and said one face of the rim causing the front stud plate, and the front face of said stud assembly defined thereby, to be moved towards the other face of said rim, further enabling said stud assembly front face to be disposed in substantially the same plane as said other rim face, still further enabling an enhancing of said one force;

said nodules and said ribs cooperating with said back stud plate and said rim, respectively, to introduce another force that precludes the accidental release of an article from said fastener structure, particularly when said structure is in a no-load position.

3. Fastener structure as defined in claim 2, wherein:

the flanges of said insert are tapered between the faces thereof to define:

a plurality of stud guiding surfaces; and wherein:

said front stud plate comprises:

a plurality of ramps extending towards the face of said back stud plate;

said ramps defining:

a plurality of ramp shoulders terminating at a plane intersecting said stud guiding surfaces along the longitudinal dimensional extent thereof;

the location at which said ramp shoulders terminate being spaced from the face of said back stud plate, enabling the front stud plate, and the front face of said stud assembly defined thereby to be moved towards the other face of said rim;

said ramps being first contacted by said flange guiding shoulders as said stud assembly is moved to an operative position relative to said frame assembly, insuring that the flanges of said rim will thence be disposed to move along the stud guiding shoulders, upon the flanges of said insert, and within and along the grooves defined by and between said insert flanges and the face of said back stud plate.

4. Fastener structure as defined in claim 2, wherein:

the flanges of said rim each comprise:

a flange guiding shoulder; and

a flange retaining shoulder; and wherein:

the other portion of said insert comprises:

a plurality of stud limit shoulders; and

a plurality of stud retaining shoulders;

the flange guiding shoulder of said rim being cooperable with said stud limit shoulders, and the flange retaining shoulders being cooperable with said stud retaining shoulders, when the stud assembly is disposed in said operative position;

the cooperation between said flange guiding shoulders and said stud limit shoulders defining the limit of movement of said stud assembly to said operative position; and

the cooperation between said flange guiding and said stud limit shoulders, and between the flange and stud retaining shoulders introducing a retaining force to retain an article in a fixed and removable relationship with respect to said fastener structure, and to preclude the accidental removal of said article therefrom when a load is applied to said structure, and particularly when said structure is in a no-load position.

5. Fastener structure as defined in claim 4, wherein:

said rim comprises:

a free portion; and wherein:

the insert of said stud assembly comprises:

a plurality of curvilinear shoulders extending outwardly of said front stud plate;

said shoulders enabling an article disposed in a fixed and removable relationship with respect to said structure to act thereupon to enhance said retaining force; and

said free portion of the rim enabling said article to act thereupon and urge said structure in substantially the same direction as a force applied to said article, causing said article to act upon said shoulders, further enabling the introduction of a normal force applied to the stud assembly at the front face thereof, causing the front stud plate to move towards the flanges of said frame assembly, provided by the spaced relationship between the location at which said ramp shoulders terminate and the face of said back stud plate, and still further enabling said one force to be further enhanced.

6. Fastener structure as defined in claim 5, wherein:

said frame assembly comprises further:

a recess;

a mounting plate, extending towards the other face of said rim; and

a connecting plate extending from the other face of said rim, and being disposable in overlying relationship with respect to the tab of said mounting plate, subsequent to positioning the latter within said recess.

7. Fastener structure as defined in claim 6, wherein there is further provided:

a connector assembly comprising:

. a recess having:

an entrance thereto; and

a finger of substantially longitudinal dimensional extent extending towards said entrance;

the longitudinal dimensional extent of said finger, relative to the transverse dimensional extent of the connector of a foundation garment, requiring that a substantial bending moment be applied to said connector about its axis to enable it to enter said entrance for its removal from said assembly, further enabling the preclusion of accidental dislodgment of said connector from the assembly as a result of ordinary movements of the wearer.

8. Fastener structure as defined in claim 7, wherein:

said connector assembly further comprises:

a wall; and

an arm comprising:

a surface;

said wall, surface and finger defining the recess, and said finger being spaced from the wall to define the entrance thereto;

said wall having:

7 a wall portion; and

said surface having:

a surface portion;

said wall and surface portions being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to one another. 9. Fastener structure as defined in claim 6, wherein there is further provided:

precluding bending of the connector of a foundation garment disposed between said wall and said surface, and extending outwardly of said fastener structure about an axis thereof, and its accidental entry into the space defined between the enlargement of said finger and said wall, as a result of ordinary bodily movements of a wearer, and the spacing between said surface and said wall assisting the finger in precluding the accidental entry of said connector into said last-named space.

10. Fastener structure as defined in claim 9, wherein:

said frame assembly, and the back and front stud plates of said stud assembly are fabricated of an acetal resin.

11. Fastener structure as defined in claim 10, wherein:

said insert is fabricated of an elastomeric material.

12. Fastener structure particularly adapted to fixedly and removably operatively associate a plurality of articles with respect to one another comprising, in combination:

a frame assembly;

said frame assembly comprising:

a rim having:

:an aperture; and

a bight at one end thereof;

a plurality of flanges each extending from the rim into said aperture, and towards said bright;

said flanges each comprising:

a plurality of faces, one of which is disposed in substantially flush relationship with respect to one of the faces of said rim, and another of which is disposed in an inwardly spaced relationship with respect to another face of said rim;

a flange guiding shoulder extending towards said rim;

a flange retaining shoulder extending towards said aperture;

said flange shoulders each having an extending surface terminating at said bight, said surfaces between them defining:

an unobstructed bight portion;

said frame assembly further comprising:

a recess at an end of said rim opposite the bight thereof a plurality of lugs extending from the recess towards the other face of said frame;

a mounting plate connected to the rim at said one face thereof, and being extendable towards the other face thereof;

said plate having:

a mounting tab of increased thickness positionable within said recess; and

a plurality of apertures within which said lugs are positionable;

the combined thickness of said plate and tab being substantially the same as said rim at the other end thereof; and

a connecting plate extending from the other face of said rim, and being disposable in overlying relationship with :respect to the tab of said mounting plate subsequent to positioning the latter within the recess; and

a plurality of nodules extending fnom said one face of the rim, at least one such nodule being disposed on either side of said aperture;

a stud assembly comprising:

a back stud plate having:

a plurality of of ribs extending from one face thereof;

the nodules of said frame assembly being cooperable with said one face of the back stud plate, and the ribs being cooperable with said one face of the a plurality of back stud plate lugs extending from said one face; and

a cloth connecting strip extending from said back stud plate;

a rubber insert positionable upon said one face, and

comprising:

a recess at each end thereof;

a plurality of curvilinear external shoulders each extending from the recess at one end of said insert; and

a plurality of superimposed portions;

one of said portions comprising:

a plurality of stud limit shoulders, each extending from a corresponding one of said external shoulders;

a plurality of walls; and

a plurality of stud retaining shoulders, each extending from a corresponding one of said walls to the recess at another end of said insert;

another of said superimposed insert portions comprisa flange extending from each of said external shoulders and along the vertical walls of said one portion;

each flange having:

a plurality of faces;

one of said plurality of faces being disposed in the same plane as one face of said other insert portion, and another face being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to one face of said one insert portion;

said flanges each of them being tapered from said one to the other face thereof to define:

a plurality of stud guiding surfaces, each originating upon said one face of each flange and terminating upon said other face and along said vertical walls;

said other face of each flange having:

a substantial plurality of tits to define:

a plurality of gripping surfaces; and

a front stud plate fixedly connected to said back stud plate in superimposed relationship with respect to said insert, comprising:

a plurality of inclined ramps extending toward said one surface of the back stud plate, and defining:

a plurality of ram-p shoulders extending to a plane intersecting said guiding surfaces along the longitudinal dimensional extent thereof; and

a connector assembly comprising:

a portion having:

an elongated aperture;

the mounting plate of said frame assembly being extendable through said aperture, and the connecting strip extending from said back stud plate being fixedly connectable between the connecting plate and the tab of said mounting plate subsequent to fixedly positioning the latter within the recess of said frame assembly; and

a wall of irregular configuration; and

an arm, said arm comprising:

a curvilinear surface; and

a finger of substantial length extending towards the wall;

said wall, surface and finger defining a recess, and said finger being spaced from said wall to define an entrance thereto;

said wall having:

a wall portion; and

said surface having:

a surface portion;

said wall and surface portions being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to one another;

the spacing between said finger and said wall being greater than the spacing between said wall and surface portions.

13. A stud assembly particularly adapted for use with fastener structure for removably operatively associating a plurality of articles with respect to one another comprising a frame assembly having a plurality of flanges, said stud assembly comprising:

a plurality of stud plates;

one of said stud plates defines a back stud plate, and another of said stud plates defines a front stud plate;

said front stud plate defining the front face of said stud assembly;

an insert disposed in tandem relationship with respect to said stud plates;

said insert defining the front face of said stud assembly and comprising:

a plurality of portions;

one of said portions having;

a plurality of flanges each having, in turn:

a plurality of faces;

one of said plurality of faces being disposed in the same plane as one of another insert portion, and another face being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to another face of said other insert portion;

said other face of each flange being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to a face of said back stud plate to define a plurality of grooves;

the grooves of said stud assembly being particularly adapted to cooperate with the flanges of said frame assembly, enabling said stud assembly to be translatable along the flanges to an operative position with respect to the frame assembly, further enabling the front face of said stud assembly to be disposed in a substantially flush relationship with respect to a front face of said frame assembly;

said insert flanges being tapered between the faces thereof to define:

a plurality of stud-guiding surfaces; and wherein:

said front stud plate comprises:

a plurality of ramps extending towards the face of said back stud plate;

said ramps defining:

a plurality of ramp shoulders terminating at a plane intersecting said stud-guiding surfaces along the longitudinal dimensional extent thereof;

the location at which said ramp shoulders terminate being spaced from the face of said back stud plate, enabling the front stud plate, and the front face of said stud assembly defined thereby to be movable towards the front face of a frame assembly;

said ramps being particularly adapted to be first contacted by the flanges of said frame assembly as the stud assembly is moved to an operative position relative thereto, insuring that the flanges of said frame assembly will thence be disposed to move along the stud-guiding shoulders, upon the flanges of said insert, and within and along the grooves defined by and between said insert flanges and the face of said back stud plate.

14. The stud assembly as defined in claim 13 wherein:

the other portion of said insert comprises:

a plurality of stud-limit shoulders; and

a plurality of stud-retaining shoulders;

said stud-limit shoulders being particularly adapted to define the limit of movement of said stud assembly to an operative position with respect to a frame assembly; and

said limitand retaining-shoulders being particularly adapted to cooperate with the flanges of said frame assembly.

15. The stud assembly as defined in claim 14 wherein:

the insert of said stud assembly comprises:

a plurality of curvilinear shoulders extending outwardly of said front stud plate.

16. The stud assembly as defined in claim 15 wherein:

said insert is fabricated of a elastomeric material.

17. In combination with fastener structure, particularly adapted to removably operatively associate a plurality of articles with respect to one another, comprising:

a frame assembly having a plurality of flanges: a stud assembly translatable along said flanges to an operative position with respect to said frame assembly, and comprising:

a plurality of stud plates;

an insert disposed between said stud plates, and in tandem relationship with respect thereto;

one of said stud plates defining a back stud plate, and another of said stud plates defining a front stud plate;

said front stud plate defining the front face of said stud assembly;

said insert comprising:

a plurality of portions;

one of said portions having:

a plurality of flanges each having, in turn:

a plurality of faces;

one of said plurality of faces being disposed in the same plane as one face of another insert portion, and another face being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to another face of said other insert portion;

said other face of each flange being disposed in spaced relationship with respect to a face of said back stud plate to define a plurality of grooves;

said grooves of said stud assembly being particularly adapted to cooperate with the flanges of said frame assembly, enabling said stud assembly to be translatable along the flanges to an operative position with respect to the frame assembly, further enabling the front face of said stud assembly to be disposed in a substantially flush relationship with respect to a front face of said frame assembly;

said flanges of said insert being tapered between the faces thereof to define:

a plurality of stud-guiding surfaces; and wherein:

said front stud plates comprise:

a plurality of ramps extending towards the face of said back stud plate;

said ramps defining:

a plurality of ramp shoulders terminating at a plane intersecting said stud-guiding surfaces along the longitudinal dimensional extent thereof;

the location at which said ramp shoulders terminate being spaced from the face of said back stud plate, enabling the front stud plate, and the front face of said stud assembly defined thereby to be movable towards the front face of a frame assembly;

said ramps being particularly adapted to be first contacted by the flanges of said frame assembly as the stud assembly is moved to an operative position relative thereto, insuring that the flanges of said frame assembly will thence be disposed to move along the stud-guiding shoulders, upon the flanges of said insert, and within and along the grooves defined by and between said insert flanges and the face of said back stud plate.

18. In the combination as defined in claim 17 wherein:

the other portion of said insert comprises:

a plurality of stud-limit shoulders; and

a plurality of stud-retaining shoulders;

said stud-limit shoulders being particularly adapted to define the limit of movement of said stud assembly to an operative position with respect to a frame assembly; and

said limitand retaining-shoulders being particularly adapted to cooperate with the flanges of said frame assembly. 19. In the combination as defined in claim 18 wherein: the insert of said stud assembly comprises: a plurality of curvilinear shoulders extending outwardly of said front stud plate. 20. In the combination as defined in claim 19 wherein: said insert is fabricated of an elastomeric material. 21. A frame assembly particularly adapted for use with fastener structure comprising a stud assembly having a connecting strip particularly adapted to operatively associate said assemblies with respect to one another, and a connector assembly for operatively associating said fastener structure with an article, such as a foundation garment, comprising: a rim having: a recess at one end thereof; a mounting plate connected to said rim, and having: a mounting tab of increased thickness fixedly positionable within said recess; and a connecting plate disposable in overlying relationship with respect to the tab of said mounting plate; said mounting plate being disposable in operative association With said connector assembly, and said connecting strip being disposable between said mounting tab and said plate to be disposed in the aforesaid relationship subsequent to operatively associating said mounting plate with the connector assembly. 22. In an assembly for use with garments, such as foundation garments, said assembly having a stud assembly, a connector assembly for operative association with such garment, and means for cooperatively associating said stud and connector assemblies with respect to one another, said connector assembly comprising:

a rim having: a recess at one end thereof; a mounting plate connected to said rim, and having: a mounting tab of increased thickness fixedly positionable within said recess; a connecting plate disposable in overlying relationship with respect to the tab of said mounting plate; said mounting plate being disposed with said mounting tab in said recess to form a bight for operatively associating said connector assembly with a garment and said connector plate being disposed in said overlying relationship subsequent to operatively associating said mounting tab in said recess.

References Cited by the Examiner UNITED STATES PATENTS 1,426,635 8/ 1922 Hawie 24-245 1,503,988 8/1924 Furey 24-245 2,463,068 3/ 1949 Tilly 24245 3,034,190 5/1962 Magnin et al 24-247 FOREIGN PATENTS 657,928 2/1963 Canada.

58,861 7/1941 Denmark. 572,286 10/ 1945 Great Britain. 735,046 8/ 1955 Great Britain.

WILLIAM FELDMAN, Primary Examiner. D. GRIFFIN, Examiner. 

22. IN AN ASSEMBLY FOR USE WITH GARMENTS, SUCH AS FOUNDATION GARMENTS, SAID ASSEMBLY HAVING A STUD ASSEMBLY, A CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY FOR OPERATIVE ASSOCIATION WITH SUCH GARMENT, AND MEANS FOR COOPERATIVELY ASSOCIATING SAID STUD AND CONNECTOR ASSEMBLIES WITH RESPECT TO ONE ANOTHER, SAID CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY COMPRISING: A RIM HAVING: A RECESS AT ONE END THEREOF; A MOUNTING PLATE CONNECTED TO SAID RIM, AND HAVING: A MOUNTING TAB OF INCREASED THICKNESS FIXEDLY POSITIONABLE WITHIN SAID RECESS; A CONNECTING PLATE DISPOSABLE IN OVERLYING RELATIONSHIP WITH RESPECT TO THE TAB OF SAID MOUNTING PLATE: SAID MOUNTING PLATE BEING DISPOSED WITH SAID MOUNTING TAB IN SAID RECESS TO FORM A BIGHT FOR OPERATIVELY ASSOCIATING SAID CONNECTOR ASSEMBLY WITH A GARMENT AND SAID CONNECTOR PLATE BEING DISPOSED IN SAID OVERLYING RELATIONSHIP SUBSEQUENT TO OPERATIVELY ASSOCIATING SAID MOUNTING TAB IN SAID RECESS. 